Intro

The anticipation for the 2026 Masters is reaching a fever pitch as golf fans prepare for Round 1 at the iconic Augusta National Golf Club. With stunning views, significant storylines, and an impressive field—including ten players from LIV Golf—the opening round promises to be a historic spectacle. Here's everything you need to know about how to tune in.

Key takeaways

  • The Masters will commence on Thursday, April 6, 2026.
  • Ten players from LIV Golf will compete, adding extra excitement to this year's tournament.
  • Viewers can catch the action live on CBS and stream it through various platforms.
  • Augusta National Golf Club remains a historic setting filled with rich traditions.
  • This year's tournament is likely to set a new standard for viewership and engagement.

Context and background

The Masters Tournament, held annually at Augusta National, is one of the four major championships in professional golf. Since its inception in 1934, it has showcased some of the greatest talents in the sport. The 2026 tournament marks the 90th iteration of the event, and as always, it is expected to draw massive global viewership.

The significance of this year’s tournament is heightened by the participation of ten LIV Golf players. LIV Golf, a controversial breakaway league that started in 2022, has stirred discussions regarding player loyalty to traditional tours and competition. As fans and analysts observe the dynamic, comparisons will likely arise between players who have remained loyal to the PGA Tour and those who have made the switch to LIV, especially in high-stakes environments like the Masters.

Television and streaming coverage details

The TV coverage for Round 1 of the 2026 Masters will be broadcast live on CBS from 3 PM to 7 PM ET. As one of the most-watched golf events in the world, CBS offers the highly anticipated live coverage that fans look forward to each year.

Additionally, for those preferring to watch online or on their mobile devices, the Masters website and app will provide streaming options, allowing fans to follow the action as it unfolds. Streaming will also be available on Paramount+ and select cable provider apps, ensuring that no one misses a moment of the excitement.

In previous years, the tournament has seen strong engagement through streaming platforms, reflecting the growing trend of viewers consuming sporting events online. This year, with the added interest of LIV players, the Masters is poised for historical coverage and viewership statistics.

In their own words

"It's a beautiful week in Augusta, and the buzz is different this year with the LIV guys in the mix. I think the fans are in for a real treat."

— Major champion

"The Masters is always special, but competing against some of these players from LIV will heighten that competitive edge, and I’m looking forward to the challenge."

— PGA Tour player

What this means for golfers

The 2026 Masters represents a unique opportunity for both casual and avid golfers to witness the intense competition among top players, including a blend of established stars and newcomers. Recreational golfers can draw inspiration from how the participants handle the pressure, which is particularly pronounced at Augusta National.

Moreover, for enthusiasts contemplating equipment purchases, watching how players adapt their gear to the course conditions offered at Augusta can provide insights. Notably, drivers and irons that perform well under such scrutiny could significantly influence purchasing decisions.

What's next

After the conclusion of Round 1, viewers can anticipate ongoing coverage throughout the Masters weekend, culminating in the final round on Sunday, April 9. The conversations around players from LIV Golf participating will only intensify, particularly in light of performance and outcomes.

In addition to that, golf fans should keep an eye on the broader implications of LIV Golf’s involvement in traditional majors, potentially reshaping the landscape of professional golf. As this tournament unfolds, it may serve as a pivotal moment in golf's history, influencing future tournaments and player engagements.